From staff reports
Texas Tax-Free Weekend can save families money, but not everything in the store qualifies for the sales tax exemption.
Every year, shoppers are surprised to learn that some popular back-to-school items remain taxable. Knowing the rules before you shop can help you avoid unexpected charges at the register.
The $100 Rule
One of the biggest misconceptions is that shoppers can spend more than $100 on an item and still receive the exemption.
That’s not how the law works.
Each qualifying item must be priced at less than $100. If a single item costs $100 or more, the entire item is taxable.
For example:
- A $99.99 backpack qualifies.
- A $100 backpack does not.
- Two $75 pairs of shoes both qualify.
- One $125 jacket does not qualify.
Clothing Accessories Don’t Qualify
Many accessories remain taxable, including:
- Jewelry
- Watches
- Handbags
- Purses
- Wallets
- Briefcases
- Hair accessories
- Umbrellas
Although they may be purchased for school, these items are not included in the tax exemption.
Some Footwear Doesn’t Qualify
Most everyday shoes are tax-free if priced under $100.
However, footwear designed primarily for athletic use generally remains taxable, including many:
- Football cleats
- Baseball cleats
- Golf shoes
- Track spikes
Regular tennis shoes and athletic shoes designed for everyday wear generally qualify.
Not Every Bag Is Tax-Free
While student backpacks qualify, these items do not:
- Computer bags
- Laptop cases
- Duffel bags
- Gym bags
- Luggage
- Garment bags
- Framed backpacks
Electronics Are Still Taxable
Many shoppers assume computers and other electronics are included because they’re used for school.
They are not.
These items remain taxable:
- Computers
- Laptops
- Tablets
- Printers
- Computer monitors
- Keyboards
- Computer software
- Headphones
- Flash drives
Texas has offered separate tax holidays for energy-efficient products, but electronics are not part of the annual back-to-school sales tax holiday.
Some School-Related Items Don’t Qualify
Not every classroom-related item is exempt.
Items such as:
- Textbooks
- Musical instruments
- Office furniture
- Filing cabinets
remain taxable unless specifically included on the state’s approved list.
If You’re Charged Sales Tax by Mistake
Most retailers correctly remove sales tax from qualifying purchases, but mistakes can happen.
If you’re charged tax on an item you believe qualifies, ask the retailer to review the purchase. If necessary, you may request a refund from the retailer or file a claim with the Texas Comptroller’s Office.
Shop Smart
Before checking out:
- Make sure every qualifying item costs less than $100.
- Double-check athletic equipment and accessories.
- Save your receipts.
- Review your receipt before leaving the store.
A few minutes of preparation can help ensure you receive every dollar of savings available during Texas Tax-Free Weekend.
